14 DAY TRIAL // A new, revolutionizing nationwide 4G-LTE wireless network was launched in the United States on Tuesday, namely LightSquared. Complemented by integrated satellite coverage, the solution is expected to provide wireless broadband and satellite connectivity to various customers in the country, including retailers; wireline and wireless communication service providers; cable operators; device manufacturers; and more. LightSquared partners would be able to offer enhanced wireless services to their users, including satellite-only, terrestrial-only, or integrated satellite-terrestrial services.
Philip Falcone, founder and chief executive officer of Harbinger Capital Partners, is the driving force behind LightSquared. According to him, “the launch of LightSquared marks a significant milestone in the industry and for Harbinger. With a strong management team and a world-class partner to build and manage the network, the business is well positioned to capitalize on key trends; demand for wireless broadband is growing at a rapid pace and there is an increasing need for additional network capacity and reach. Importantly, LightSquared will also make a significant contribution to U.S. job growth and the economy.”
LightSquared would have telecommunications visionary Sanjiv Ahuja as its chairman and chief executive officer, Falcone announced. Ahuja has a great track record and should prove a great option for the new company and for the deployment of the LightSquared network around the country. Ahuja served as chief executive officer of the global telecom giant Orange Group from 2004 through 2007 and managed to more than double the company's customers base during the time frame.
“LightSquared will be a disruptive force in the U.S. wireless landscape by democratizing wireless broadband services,” said Ahuja. “We’re not only delivering exciting opportunities for manufacturers and retailers, but also real change for consumers, dealers, and service providers. We’re providing everyone, including underserved communities, with a fast, reliable experience regardless of where they are located in the United States. This network will return our country to its rightful position as a leader in wireless broadband technology and solidify its reputation as the center of global innovation.”
The new wireless services provider also announced the signing of an 8-year agreement with leading supplier of telecommunications equipment and services Nokia Siemens Networks. The $7 billion deal includes network design, equipment manufacturing and installation, maintenance and more. The LightSquared network is expected to include over 40,000 cellular base stations and to offer wireless coverage to over 92 percent of US population by 2015.
“Nokia Siemens Networks is proud to have been selected for the largest-ever outsourced deployment of a wireless network in the United States,” said Rajeev Suri, chief executive officer of Nokia Siemens Networks. “Our organization is prepared and ready to harness our global expertise to enable LightSquared to meet its aggressive rollout schedule.” Additional info on the new company can be found on its website here.